We were a little apprehensive about taking Zach to visit Santa. We were anticipating a meltdown with full hysterics and a picture of our screaming toddler with Santa. BUT... we were pleasantly surprised with our visit. We went to the mall on a Sunday morning, hoping the line wasn't too bad. While Sam and I took turns waiting in line, Zach played in a kids area conveniently located right next to Santa. When it got close to our turn, Zach patiently watched other kids sit on Santa's lap. Luckily, it took quite a while between kids, so Zach had plenty of time to observe what was going on. When it was finally our turn, and we were waiting for the photographer to get ready- Zach went up to Santa and gave him a high-five and told him he wanted him to bring him Elmo. When at last it was photo time, Zach sat on Santa's lap and mom and dad joined in the picture. Luckily the photographer had an Elmo to show Zach and Zach had fun watching Elmo while the pictures were taken. Then mom and dad moved out of the way and voila- Zach had his picture taken with Santa! He definitely understood that you needed to tell Santa what he wanted him to bring. We also had an elf on the shelf named "Bruce" who every morning, Zach would go looking for and tell me that Bruce told Santa he wanted Elmo. Since Zach received Elmo Rocks from Mema and Gramps for Hanukkah, Santa brought Zach an Elmo shirt, books and a new Sesame Street pop up toy. We are now up to our eyeballs in Elmo!
